New Delhi: Do mountains matter? Yes, they do. Mountains directly or indirectly play an important role in our lives. Mountains cover over a quarter of the planet’s land surface and are home to 12 per cent of the population in the world. More than half of humanity’s freshwater originates in the world’s mountains.
Mountains are becoming vulnerable, particularly to climate change and other impacts of global change. Every December 11, International Mountain Day is observed. The day is designated by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). In this article, let us look at this year’s theme and what it means.
International Mountain Day 2024: What is the theme for this year?
Mountain communities have found ways to adapt to their harsh environments, face climate change, reduce poverty, and protect or restore biodiversity for centuries.
This year’s International Mountain Day theme is “Mountain solutions for a sustainable future—innovation, adaptation, and youth.” The day will highlight the needs and strengths of these communities while keeping the theme in mind.
Innovation is crucial for solving complex issues in mountain areas. It includes new technologies and creative solutions, such as climate-smart agriculture.
As mountains face the challenges of climate change, adaptation is essential. This means finding ways to build resilience and reduce vulnerability. Adaptation strategies include using ecosystem-based approaches to handle disasters and integrating Indigenous knowledge.
Finally, involving young people is key to ensuring that mountain solutions last. International Mountain Day supports decent work and quality job opportunities for youth, provides accessible training, and encourages entrepreneurship that helps use mountain resources sustainably.
Facts about Mountains
Six of the 20 plant species that provide 80 per cent of the world’s food come from mountains. These plants are maize, potatoes, barley, sorghum, tomatoes, and apples.
Mountain ecosystems face threats from pollution. For example, microplastics have been found all the way up to the summit of Mt Everest.
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, up to 84 per cent of the unique plant and animal species found in the mountains are at risk of extinction.
International Mountain Day highlights the crucial role of mountains in a sustainable future. This year’s theme, “Mountain solutions for a sustainable future—innovation, adaptation, and youth,” emphasises community resilience against climate change. Read on to learn more about the theme and its meaning. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
